Natural Health Masters Degree Program Information

If you are interested in studying alternative medicine at the graduate level, you may want to consider a master's degree program in natural health and healing. Find out more about program specifics and future prospects for graduates.

Essential Information

Natural health science is an alternative or complementary form of medical science that promotes natural methods of healing. In master's degree programs in natural health and healing, students study human anatomy and physiology in order to learn how natural methods can treat and prevent illness, injury, disease, depression, anxiety and obsessive compulsive behaviors. Many programs culminate in a thesis or final project that delves into a particular aspect of the holistic sciences field, such as herbology, natural nutrition, or acupuncture. Some programs also require graduate students complete an internship or work-study experience under the supervision of a trained natural healer. In order to apply to one of these programs, students must have a bachelor's degree in a natural health-related field.

Master of Science in Natural Health and Healing

Coursework in this master's degree program covers advanced forms of alternative and psychospiritual health and healing. Example classes include:

Neurophysiology of belief

Phytochemical composition of food

Detoxification and healing

Holistic human development

Iridology

Advanced herbology

Popular Career Options

After earning a master's degree, students are prepared for a wide range of careers in the natural health field, including:

Herbologist

Natural healer

Organic nutritionist

Holistic therapist

Massage therapist

Acupuncturist

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for massage therapists was $38,040 in May 2015. Employment was projected to grow at a rate of 22 percent between 2014 and 2024, which is much faster than the national average for all occupations. Dietitians and nutritionists earned a median annual wage of $57,910 in 2015, with an expected increase in employment of 16 percent between 2014 and 2024. Health diagnosing and treating practitioners earned a median salary of $76,760, as of 2015, with a projected job growth of 17 percent from 2014-2024.

Continuing Education Options

Some careers in natural medicine may require state licensure, along with periodic continuing education requirements for renewal. Students can also earn certificates in specific subfields of natural health, which can make them more appealing job candidates.

Graduates who want to pursue research in the natural health sciences may consider enrolling in a Ph.D. program in natural health, alternative medicine, or complementary medicine. These programs have both research and clinical research components, and they typically culminate in a thesis or dissertation.

In conclusion, a master's degree in natural health and healing provides students with interdisciplinary training in science and alternative medicine, preparing them for a wide range of careers in the field.